Implementing a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system can be a game-changer for financial advisors and assistants. It streamlines processes, enhances client relationships, and improves overall efficiency. However, successfully launching a new CRM requires careful planning and expertise. That’s where hiring a CRM implementation consultant comes in. In this article, we will discuss ten compelling reasons why financial firms should consider hiring a CRM implementation consultant.
10 Reasons to Hire A CRM Implementation Consultant
Time Efficiency
Implementing a CRM system can be a time-consuming endeavor. Researching different CRM platforms, comparing features, and learning how to navigate the software can be overwhelming for financial professionals. By hiring a CRM implementation consultant, you can save valuable time that would otherwise be spent self-educating and falling behind the learning curve. A consultant who is well-versed in CRM systems can guide you through the process, providing efficient solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Lack Of In-House Resources
Many financial firms do not have the necessary in-house resources or expertise to handle a CRM implementation effectively. While it may be tempting to assign the task to an existing employee, they may not possess the required skills or experience. A CRM implementation consultant brings specialized knowledge to the table, ensuring a smooth transition and eliminating the need for extensive training or hiring additional staff.
In working with offices we find these are the top 3 Rules to Engage your Staff in Technology:
Rule #1: Play in the Technology Sandbox
Typically most software systems will offer a free trial. Free trials are the perfect opportunity to click every button you see. The software will not break from clicking buttons. If there is sample data within–that is even better! Use it as a safe sandbox to go in and play without any thoughts or repercussions. It’s a no judgment zone and you’re guaranteed to discover something new that will add value to your office.
Rule #2: Acknowledge the Curse of Knowledge
When you know something, you forget what it was like not knowing. For technology you might have scheduled a demo, you might have sat in on a training–but your team didn’t. Once it’s time to introduce a new software, assume there is zero experience with the product. From that expectation you can schedule hands-on education. You need an expert to visually demonstrate your expectations. From logging in to tracking RMDs.
Rule #3: Develop an Internal Expert
A resident expert can keep up with any changes to continuously improve your office. Get this person signed up for the software’s newsletter and reserve a few minutes at each team meeting to let them explain any new updates. It’ll empower your employee by giving them ownership and they can be the go-to person for questions.
Read more about adoption and more in our guest blog with Redtail Technology.
Expert Insight
CRM implementation consultants are subject matter experts in their field. They possess deep knowledge of CRM systems, best practices, and industry trends. By leveraging their expertise, you gain valuable insights into optimizing your CRM implementation. Consultants can provide guidance on data migration strategies, customization options, and best practices for utilizing CRM features effectively. Their expert advice enables you to make informed decisions, resulting in a more successful implementation.
Business Processes & Operation Audits
A CRM implementation consultant conducts thorough audits of your current business processes and operations. They analyze your workflows, identify inefficiencies, and suggest improvements that align with your business goals. By streamlining processes and eliminating redundancies, consultants help you make the most of your CRM system. Their objective perspective ensures that your CRM aligns with your unique business requirements.
Selecting A Suitable Tech Stack
Choosing the right CRM software and integrating it with your existing tech stack is crucial for a seamless implementation. However, the market is flooded with numerous CRM options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. A CRM implementation consultant can assist you in selecting a suitable tech stack that aligns with your business needs. They evaluate different CRM platforms, considering factors such as scalability, customization capabilities, and integration possibilities, ensuring that you make an informed decision. And it doesn’t just stop at CRM’s, it extends to all fintech like planning softwares, marketing tools, data gathering, and more;
Customizing And Optimizing After Installation
Implementing a CRM system is not a one-size-fits-all process. It requires customization to suit your specific business requirements. A CRM implementation consultant helps you configure the CRM software to align with your workflows, data structures, team dynamics, and reporting needs. They optimize the system’s features to maximize its potential and ensure that it seamlessly integrates into your existing business processes.
Exposure To Best Practices
CRM implementation consultants bring a wealth of experience from working with various clients across different industries. They are well-versed in best practices for CRM implementation and can introduce you to proven methodologies. By leveraging their knowledge, you gain access to tried-and-true strategies that have been successful in other organizations. This exposure to best practices enhances your implementation process, allowing you to provide exceptional service to your clients.
When to Use Certain CRM Features
CRM systems offer a plethora of features and functionalities, and it can be challenging to determine which ones are best suited for your specific needs. A CRM implementation consultant can guide you on when and how to utilize certain features effectively. For example, they can help you understand the differences between workflows and activity templates and advise you on the most appropriate use cases for each. This guidance ensures that you make the most of your CRM system’s capabilities and maximize its impact on your business.
Data Migration Strategies & Best Practices
Migrating data from existing systems to a new CRM platform requires careful planning and execution. A CRM implementation consultant can help you develop data migration strategies and implement best practices. They will ensure that your data is cleansed, deduplicated, and properly structured before the migration process begins. By following these best practices, you can avoid data integrity issues and start with a clean and reliable dataset in your new CRM system.
Cost
When considering the cost of CRM implementation, it’s important to weigh the expenses associated with hiring a CRM implementation consultant against the alternative of allocating a full-time operations manager to oversee the process. While a full-time operations manager may require a higher salary, benefits, and ongoing training costs, a part-time CRM implementation consultant can provide the expertise and guidance you need at a fraction of the cost. By opting for a consultant, you can achieve significant cost savings without compromising on quality.
Final Thoughts On Hiring A CRM Implementation Consultant
Implementing a CRM system can be a game-changer for financial advisors and assistants, but it’s crucial to set the correct expectations for a successful launch. Hiring a CRM implementation consultant offers numerous benefits, including time efficiency, access to expert insight, optimized business processes, and exposure to best practices. Our guidance can help you navigate the complexities of CRM implementation, enabling you to provide your clients with the exceptional service they deserve. By investing in a CRM implementation consultant, you can streamline the process, stay ahead of the learning curve, and set your business up for long-term success.
When it comes to CRM implementation, Stephanie Dannebaum Consulting stands out as the provider that delivers. With a reputation for being thorough, patient, and attentive to the unique needs of each office, we ensure a smooth transition that allows you to jump off the starting line and gain a competitive edge through a technology advantage. Our services range from one-off project consultations to full turnkey transformations, offering flexibility to meet your specific requirements. Additionally, we provide comprehensive training programs and an exclusive CRM inspection service. If you’re ready to take your CRM implementation to the next level, don’t hesitate to inquire with Stephanie Dannebaum Consulting today.
Let us help you unlock the full potential of your CRM system and propel your business towards success.
